How to Apply to Sol Plaatje University (SPU) 2026 | Complete Guide
Apply to SPU in 2026 — APS 26+, deadline Oct 31. Free step-by-step guide: documents, portal & fees. Check your eligibility now.
How to Apply to Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
Thinking about studying at Sol Plaatje University (SPU)? Based in Kimberley, Northern Cape, SPU is a Comprehensive University established in 2014. This guide covers everything you need to know to apply successfully — from APS requirements to application deadlines, bursaries, and step-by-step instructions.
At a Glance: SPU Fast Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sol Plaatje University (SPU) |
| Type | Comprehensive University |
| Location | Kimberley, Northern Cape |
| Year Founded | 2014 |
| Application Portal | https://www.spu.ac.za/apply |
| Application Fee | R100 |
| Applications Open | May 1 |
| Applications Close | October 31 |
| Minimum APS | 26 (varies by programme) |
| Contact Phone | 053 491 0000 |
| Contact Email | admissions@spu.ac.za |
Why Choose SPU?
SA's newest public university, established to serve the Northern Cape.
- South Africa's newest university, officially opened in 2014
- Named after Solomon "Sol" Plaatje, the first Secretary-General of the ANC
- Established specifically to bring higher education to the Northern Cape, which had no public university
- Sol Plaatje the man wrote the first novel in English by a Black South African ("Mhudi")
Faculties and Programmes at SPU
SPU offers qualifications across 4 faculties:
- Economic & Management Sciences
- Education
- Humanities
- Natural & Applied Sciences
Popular programmes include: BCom, BA, BEd, BSc, BA Multimedia Studies.
APS Requirements for SPU
The minimum Admission Point Score (APS) required at SPU is 26 points. However, individual programmes may require significantly higher scores:
APS range: 26–34 depending on programme
SPU requires a minimum APS of 26 for most programmes. As a new university, it has smaller cohorts, allowing for more personal attention. Programmes grow year-on-year.
How to Calculate Your APS
Your APS is calculated from your Grade 12 (NSC) subject results. Each subject receives a score from 1 to 7 based on your percentage:
| Percentage (%) | Rating Code | APS Points |
|---|---|---|
| 80–100% | 7 (Outstanding) | 7 |
| 70–79% | 6 (Meritorious) | 6 |
| 60–69% | 5 (Substantial) | 5 |
| 50–59% | 4 (Adequate) | 4 |
| 40–49% | 3 (Moderate) | 3 |
| 30–39% | 2 (Elementary) | 2 |
| 0–29% | 1 (Not Achieved) | 1 |
Your APS is the sum of your six best subjects (excluding Life Orientation, which is counted at half-value at most universities, or excluded entirely).
Use our free APS Calculator to calculate your score instantly.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply to SPU
Step 1: Check Programme Requirements
Before applying, confirm the specific APS requirements and subject prerequisites for your chosen programme at https://www.spu.ac.za. Some programmes require specific subjects (e.g., Mathematics for Engineering, Life Sciences for Medicine).
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You will typically need:
- Certified copy of your ID (South African ID or passport for international students)
- Certified copy of your Grade 11 final results (if applying before matric)
- Certified copy of your NSC / Grade 12 results (final matric results when available)
- Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill)
- Completed application form (online or paper)
Step 3: Apply Online
Visit the SPU online application portal at https://www.spu.ac.za/apply. Create an account, complete the application form, upload your documents, and pay the application fee of R100.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Applications for 2027 admission typically open in May 1 and close on October 31. Apply as early as possible — popular programmes fill up quickly, especially Medicine, Law, and Engineering.
Step 5: Accept Your Offer
Once you receive a conditional or unconditional offer from SPU, accept it within the specified timeframe (usually 2–4 weeks). You may need to pay a registration deposit to secure your place.
Step 6: Register for Your Programme
After accepting your offer, complete the formal registration process in January (or mid-year for Semester 2 programmes). Bring original and certified copies of all documents.
Application Deadlines for SPU
Missing the application deadline is one of the most common reasons students don't get into their chosen institution. Here are the key dates:
- Applications Open: May 1
- Application Deadline: October 31
- Results Notification: Typically November–December for the following year
- Registration: January (Semester 1) or mid-year
Pro tip: Don't wait until the last day. Apply when applications open — some programmes are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Bursaries and Financial Aid at SPU
Studying at SPU can be financed through several bursaries and financial aid options:
- NSFAS
- SPU Financial Aid
- Northern Cape Provincial Government Bursaries
- Sibanye-Stillwater Bursary
NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): If your combined household income is below R350,000 per year, you may qualify for NSFAS funding. Apply at www.nsfas.org.za from October each year for the following academic year.
Preparing for SPU While Still in School
The best time to prepare for university is while you're still in Grade 10, 11, or 12. Here's what you can do:
- Focus on your key subjects: Make sure you're strong in the subjects required for your chosen programme
- Use AI tutoring: StudyBuddy's AI tutor helps you master difficult CAPS topics before matric
- Research your options early: Visit open days at SPU to understand campus life
- Apply for bursaries early: Some bursaries (like Allan Gray, Anglo American) are available while you're still in Grade 11
- Track your APS: Use our APS calculator to know where you stand
What Happens After You Apply?
After submitting your application to SPU, the process typically follows these stages:
- Application Confirmation: You'll receive an email or SMS confirming receipt of your application
- Conditional Offer: If your Grade 11 results meet the requirements, you may receive a conditional offer
- Final Results Submission: Submit your final NSC results in January
- Unconditional Offer: If your matric results meet or exceed the requirements, your offer becomes unconditional
- Registration: Register for your programme and pay your fees or confirm NSFAS/bursary funding
Comparing SPU With Other Universities
Not sure if SPU is the right fit? Here are some things to consider:
| Factor | SPU | Typical Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Comprehensive University | Traditional University / UoT |
| Location | Kimberley | Varies |
| Minimum APS | 26 | 20–37 (varies widely) |
| Application Fee | R100 | R100–R400 |
| NSFAS Eligible | Yes | Yes (public) / No (private) |
Frequently Asked Questions About Applying to SPU
Still have questions? Our FAQ section below answers the most common questions about applying to SPU.
Need extra help with your Grade 12 subjects to meet SPU's entry requirements? StudyBuddy's AI tutor is FREE to start — get personalised help in Mathematics, Sciences, English, and all CAPS subjects. Most students improve their marks by 20–30% within a few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum APS to apply to SPU?
The minimum APS at SPU is 26 points for most programmes. However, competitive programmes like Medicine, Law, or Engineering may require significantly higher scores (26–34 depending on programme). Always check the specific requirements for your chosen programme on the SPU website.
When do applications open for SPU?
Applications for SPU typically open in May 1 and close on October 31. We strongly recommend applying as early as possible, as popular programmes fill up quickly. Visit https://www.spu.ac.za/apply to apply online.
How much is the application fee for SPU?
The application fee at SPU is R100. Some students may qualify for a fee waiver — check the SPU website for details. The application fee is usually non-refundable even if your application is unsuccessful.
Does SPU accept NSFAS?
Yes, SPU is an accredited NSFAS institution. If your household income is below R350,000 per year, you may qualify for NSFAS funding which can cover tuition, accommodation, meals, transport, and a living allowance. Apply at www.nsfas.org.za from October each year.
What documents do I need to apply to SPU?
For your application to SPU, you will need: a certified copy of your ID, certified copies of your Grade 11 and/or Grade 12 results, proof of residence, and any programme-specific requirements (portfolio for arts, HPAT scores for health sciences, etc.). All documents should be certified within 3 months of the application date.